Published Version

Abstract

The lack of readily available sterilization processes for medicine
and dentistry practices in the developing world is a major risk
factor for the propagation of disease. Modern medical facilities in
the developed world often use autoclave systems to sterilize
medical instruments and equipment and process waste that
could contain harmful contagions. Here, we show the use of
broadband light-absorbing nanoparticles as solar photothermal
heaters, which generate high-temperature steam for a standalone,
efficient solar autoclave useful for sanitation of instruments or
materials in resource-limited, remote locations. Sterilization was
verified using a standard Geobacillus stearothermophilus-based
biological indicator.